Learning About Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)

What is opioid use disorder?

Opioid use disorder means that a person uses opioids even though it causes harm to themselves or others. It can range from mild to severe. The more signs of this disorder you have, the more severe it may be. Moderate to severe opioid use disorder is sometimes called addiction. People who have it may find it hard to control their use.

This disorder can develop from the use of any type of opioid. Prescription ones include hydrocodone, oxycodone, fentanyl, and morphine. Heroin is an example of an illegal opioid.

With this disorder, you may get strong cravings for opioids. You may need more and more of the opioid to get the same effect. This is called tolerance. Your body may also get used to opioids. This is called physical dependence. If you stop using opioids, you may have uncomfortable symptoms (withdrawal).

What are medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD)

Medications for opioid use disorder, or MOUD, are medicines that you take in place of the opioid you were using. These medicines include:

• Buprenorphine. This medicine works by targeting the same places in the brain that opioids do. It also helps stop withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings without making you feel "high."
• Methadone. This medicine helps satisfy the brain's physical need for opioids. It also helps withdrawal symptoms and blocks the "high" you feel when using opioids.
• Naltrexone. It prevents the feelings of pleasure you get from using an opioid. This medicine is only given after you have gone through withdrawal.

MOUD can work in different ways, depending on which medicine you take. Sometimes it can help with withdrawal symptoms. Other times it helps you manage cravings.

When you use MOUD, you no longer think all the time about how to get or use opioids. You are more able to focus on getting better. You can work on how you will stay away from using opioids.

What is it like to take these medicines?

Because these medicines are strong and should be used carefully, doctors follow specific steps or rules when prescribing MOUD. This is to make sure the medicines are used safely and work as intended.

Depending on the medicine, you may take it as a pill, a film that dissolves under your tongue, or an injection. Some medicines are taken at home, while others may require visits to a clinic, especially at the start of treatment. Your doctor will explain how often and in what form you should take your medicine.

Your dose may need to be adjusted up or down at first.

Some people have side effects, but they're usually minor.

You might take the new drug for months, years, or even for life.

Along with MOUD, counseling and education are also an important part of treatment for opioid use disorder.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.